BEIJING, November 27, 2025 – China’s top economic planner has urged humanoid robot manufacturers to prevent the market from being flooded with repetitive products, which could stifle innovation and hinder research and development in the industry. The warning came amid rapid growth in China’s humanoid robotics sector, which now features over 150 companies.

Government Guidance on Innovation

At a press conference, Li Chao, spokesperson for the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), emphasized that speed and speculation have historically been issues in frontier industries. He stressed that companies must carefully balance rapid market expansion with sustainable innovation.

“Humanoid robot companies should prevent the risk of highly repetitive products entering the market and squeezing the space for research and development,” Li said, highlighting the importance of originality and technological advancement in shaping China’s competitive edge in robotics.

Challenges in China’s Humanoid Robotics Market

China’s humanoid robot sector has experienced rapid growth, attracting significant investment. However, industry observers have noted the emergence of similar or repetitive products, which could lead to market saturation and reduce incentives for companies to invest in advanced R&D.

The NDRC’s guidance aims to address these challenges by encouraging companies to focus on:

• Innovation-driven product development
• Differentiation in design and functionality
• Sustainable growth strategies for long-term competitiveness

Broader Economic Initiatives

Separately, Li Chao mentioned that the NDRC is actively promoting the expansion of real estate investment trusts (REITs) to support infrastructure development, including urban renewal projects, hotels, sports venues, and commercial office facilities. These initiatives are part of China’s broader strategy to foster sustainable industrial growth while boosting investment in key sectors.

Implications for the Industry

By emphasizing research-focused development and discouraging repetitive products, China aims to:

• Strengthen its position as a global leader in humanoid robotics
• Encourage breakthroughs in AI, mechanical engineering, and automation
• Prevent speculative bubbles and ensure long-term industrial stability

The government’s intervention reflects its ongoing efforts to manage the development of frontier technologies, balancing rapid growth with sustainability and innovation.